How Do the Dutch Celebrate Sinterklaas?

Sinterklaas is one of the most important and widely celebrated traditions in the Netherlands. Taking place in late November and early December, it is a festive period centered around family, children, and gift-giving.

For many Dutch people, Sinterklaas feels more significant than Christmas.

Who Is Sinterklaas?

Sinterklaas is based on Saint Nicholas, a historical bishop known for generosity.

In Dutch tradition, Sinterklaas:

• Arrives from Spain by steamboat
• Wears a red bishop’s robe and mitre
• Rides a white horse
• Is accompanied by helpers called “Pieten”

He is considered a separate figure from Santa Claus, although the two share historical roots.

When Does It Take Place?

The celebration begins with the national arrival (Intocht) in mid-November. This televised event shows Sinterklaas arriving by boat in a Dutch city.

The main celebration happens on:

5 December – Sinterklaasavond (Pakjesavond)

This is when gifts are exchanged.

The Arrival (Intocht)

Every year, Sinterklaas officially arrives in a different Dutch city. For example, celebrations are large and public in cities like:

• Amsterdam
• Utrecht
• Rotterdam

Children gather along canals and harbors to welcome him.

After the national arrival, smaller local arrivals happen across the country.

The Shoe Tradition

In the weeks before 5 December, children:

• Place a shoe by the fireplace or door
• Leave a drawing or carrot for Sinterklaas’ horse
• Sing Sinterklaas songs

The next morning, they may find small sweets or gifts in their shoe.

Pakjesavond (5 December)

This is the main event.

Families gather in the evening to:

• Exchange gifts
• Read humorous poems
• Share traditional sweets

Gifts are often creatively wrapped or hidden inside funny “surprises” (called surprises in Dutch), especially among adults and older children.

Sinterklaas Poems

A unique part of the celebration is writing short, playful poems. These often:

• Tease the recipient gently
• Mention events from the past year
• Are written from Sinterklaas’ perspective

It’s a light-hearted and creative tradition.

Traditional Sinterklaas Treats

Common sweets include:

• Pepernoten (small spiced cookies)
• Chocolate letters (the first letter of someone’s name)
• Speculaas (spiced biscuits)
• Marzipan figures

These appear in shops weeks before 5 December.

Adults and Sinterklaas

While primarily a children’s holiday, many adults celebrate too — especially in friend groups or workplaces.

In professional settings:

• Small gifts may be exchanged
• Chocolate letters are common
• Informal gatherings take place

What Expats Should Know

• It is a family-centered celebration
• Gifts are often modest but thoughtful
• Humor and creativity are important
• Planning happens in advance
• 5 December is the key evening

After 5 December, Christmas decorations usually appear and attention shifts to the next holiday season.

Why Sinterklaas Is So Important

Sinterklaas reflects core Dutch values:

• Tradition
• Family time
• Modesty
• Creativity
• Structured celebration

For many Dutch people, it feels nostalgic and deeply rooted in childhood memories.

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